Case Report on Paediatric Nephrotic Syndrome

Abstract

Nephrotic syndrome (NS) is a glomerular disorder typically characterized by gross proteinuria, hypoalbuminemia, hyperlipidemia, and peripheral oedema. We report the case of a 2-year-old male toddler weighing 15 kg with a 1-week history of swelling around the eyes and both legs, and generalized body swelling. She had a history of fever, cough and decreased urine output. Examination revealed bilateral pedal oedema (pitting type). Laboratory investigations showed protein in urine, reduced serum albumin (2.0 g/dL) with elevated lipid levels. Although kidney biopsy could not be performed due to economic problem of the family, a diagnosis of idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (NS) was made based on clinical and laboratory findings. The patient was mainly treated with furosemide, prednisolone and enalapril. Urine I/O charting (Intake/Output chart for assessing fluid intake and ability to pass urine in adequate amounts) was done daily until optimal results were obtained.

Keywords: hyperlipidemia; nephrotic syndrome; oedema and hypoalbunemia; proteinuria.